Georgia Faces Protests Over Pro-Russia Shift

Bidzina Ivanishvili, Georgia's richest man and former prime minister, is now viewed as a de facto ruler with increasing authoritarian tendencies. After purchasing Pablo Picasso's 'Dora Maar au chat' for £52 million in 2006, Ivanishvili leveraged his wealth to influence Georgian politics, initially expressing a strong desire for NATO integration. However, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, he has shifted towards a pro-Russian stance, leading to mass protests against his government’s proposed 'foreign agents' law. Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili has condemned the ruling Georgian Dream party's election results, equating recognition of the pro-Russian party's victory to accepting subordination to Russia. This political tension highlights the struggle within Georgia to maintain its European aspirations amidst Ivanishvili's dominance and Russia's influence. The situation raises concerns about the country's future direction and democratic integrity.